Automotive

Sync Connect makes your Ford remote controlled

Ford Sync Connect users will be able to schedule times to start their car's engine, so it's warmed up and ready for the journey to work on cold days
Ford Sync Connect users will be able to schedule times to start their car's engine, so it's warmed up and ready for the journey to work on cold days

Ford has announced a new Sync Connect service, which allows users to remotely control and monitor certain features of their car. Tesla already has a similar app, but Sync Connect brings the functionality to a broader marker. Users can remotely locate, unlock, lock and start their car.

Sync is Ford's in-car communications and infotainment system. Now on its third iteration, it allows users to do things like make hands-free phone calls, play and control music and view directions. Ford says it is also the industry's first system to provide voice-activated control of paired smartphones as widely and affordably as it does.

The Connect feature of Sync is said to be part of Ford's aim to deliver the "next level in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience and big data." For security, a two-step authentication process is required to enable Sync Connect, with the user having to confirm setup on the both vehicle's touch screen and on the mobile app.

One the system is up and running, the app connects to a built-in modem in the vehicle. The app can then be used to check the location of a vehicle on a map (for example, where it is parked), lock and unlock the doors, start the engine remotely to warm it up on cold days and check fuel, oil, battery and tire pressure levels.

Sync Connect will debut next year in the new Ford Escape, with other vehicles to follow. The app will be available for both iOS and Android mobile devices.

Source: Ford

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7 comments
EddieG
There is no reason to actually be inside the car, of course, if you have nowhere to go. Finally we can make toys out of our cars as we have done with our telephones.
CharlieSeattle
One more tool for car Jack/Hackers to use. Thx!
tyme2par4
What is the range on the connection? Or does it use cell service like OnStar?
Bob Flint
With one unseen swipe the preoccupied overloaded user sets off the start command without realizing that the GPS thinks the car is parked on the driveway. Yet actually sealed inside the garage just a few feet below the bedroom. As the silent killer builds up strength the oblivious user begins to feel drowsy and drops the phone as they nod away for eternity....
Think how many times and how many applications you have triggered without knowing, pocket dials seem harmless compared to this..
joeblogs
fords electronics/electrical have always been rubbish. i cant imagine it will take much more than a school kid to be able to break in to these cars.
Stephen N Russell
Lisc to all auto makers & Ford can earn more alone. Nice idea, love this app for my phone for any car make
Captain Obvious
At least they got rid of the Microsoft software.